Ph.D. Student, Educational Psychology and Educational Technology - Michigan State University
CEP 900 & 930
Audio Interview on Motivation
I interviewed Simon Biasell about his motivation to learn throughout his seminary experience. Simon is a Presbyterian pastor of a local congregation here in Fresno who just completed a Master of Divinity program.
For Simon, motivation to learn throughout seminary was influenced by both extrinsic and intrinsic factors. Extrinsically, Simon felt the pressure to perform well and complete his degree due to the expectations placed on him by the program and his denomination. However, many learning experiences during his education left him feeling disinterested due to the lack of choice and creative freedom. When Simon experienced a sense of self-efficacy in a particular course, he noticed that his achievement was vastly improved.
Motivation to learn largely depended on the level of choice in the content and design of the learning experience. Simon described the way relationships with fellow students and professors helped him to feel a part of a community, which in turn motivated him to stay engaged. When discussing other areas of learning, Simon cited the personal connection he feels to the learning experience as being a primary motivator for continued interest.
This audio interview afforded a level of spontaneity in terms of conversation and thought formation. The technologies of microphone and recording equipment did not hinder the experience; rather, they captured the inflection of Simon’s voice, the cadence of his speech, and the pauses Simon took when forming thoughts. These are elements that would not have been present in a written interview and contributed to a closer connection between interviewee and observer.
Credits: Intro music by helios - the morning room
https://soundcloud.com/keithkenniff/helios-the-morning-room
For Simon, motivation to learn throughout seminary was influenced by both extrinsic and intrinsic factors. Extrinsically, Simon felt the pressure to perform well and complete his degree due to the expectations placed on him by the program and his denomination. However, many learning experiences during his education left him feeling disinterested due to the lack of choice and creative freedom. When Simon experienced a sense of self-efficacy in a particular course, he noticed that his achievement was vastly improved.
Motivation to learn largely depended on the level of choice in the content and design of the learning experience. Simon described the way relationships with fellow students and professors helped him to feel a part of a community, which in turn motivated him to stay engaged. When discussing other areas of learning, Simon cited the personal connection he feels to the learning experience as being a primary motivator for continued interest.
This audio interview afforded a level of spontaneity in terms of conversation and thought formation. The technologies of microphone and recording equipment did not hinder the experience; rather, they captured the inflection of Simon’s voice, the cadence of his speech, and the pauses Simon took when forming thoughts. These are elements that would not have been present in a written interview and contributed to a closer connection between interviewee and observer.
Credits: Intro music by helios - the morning room
https://soundcloud.com/keithkenniff/helios-the-morning-room